Man Charged With Immigration Violation; More Charges Likely

Tuesday, September 8 – One man was charged this afternoon with landing at a place other than a port of entry and will likely face further charges.

Felix Rafael Melendez-Colon, 55, a native of Puerto Rico, was found yesterday on a small vessel in the waters off of Towers, West End with a travel bag containing a large quantity of cash.

At the time, officers of the Royal Virgin Islands Police Marine Branch were joined by officers from Conservation and Fisheries on sea patrol around the Towers area when they stopped and boarded the boat occupied by Melendez.

The vessel was searched and the black travel bag was seized.

He was then arrested on suspicion for failing to declare monies to HM Customs and landing at a place other than a port of entry in the Virgin Islands.